Talbots Same-Store Sales Up, J. Jill's Down

The Talbots Inc. reported consolidated company sales for the third quarter ended Oct. 28 totaled $569 million. Comparable-store sales rose 2.3 percent for the quarter.

Consolidated direct marketing sales for the thirteen-week period were $109 million. The total company direct marketing business increased 70 percent over last year, reflecting the inclusion of J. Jill direct marketing sales.

By brand, retail store sales increased to $383 million for Talbots compared to $363 million last year, and were $77 million for J. Jill. Same-store sales for Talbots increased 4 percent and dropped 6.6 percent for J. Jill.

Hingham, MA-based Talbots, www.talbots.com, net income during the third quarter was $8.1 million, or $0.15 per share, compared to the $0.37 reported last year for the Talbots only brand.

For the 39-week period ended Oct. 28, consolidated company sales totaled $1,593 million. Comparable-store sales rose 1.5 percent during the same period. Consolidated direct marketing sales were $271 million.

For the 39-week period, total consolidated company net income was $31.6 million, or $0.59 per diluted share compared to the $1.35 reported last year for the Talbots only brand.

By brand, retail store sales increased to $1,171 million for Talbots compared to $1,130 million last year and were $151 million for J. Jill from the date of acquisition. Same-store sales for Talbots increased 2.6 percent while J. Jill's same-store sales dropped 7.4 percent for the period May 3 - Oct. 28.